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GNDU Question Paper-2023

B.A 1

Semester

ENGLISH (Elective)

Time Allowed: Three Hours Max. Marks: 75

Note: Attempt Five questions in all, selecting at least One question from each section. The

Fifth question may be attempted from any section. All questions carry equal marks.

SECTION-A

1. (A) Describe the literary terms:

(a) Character

(b) Irony.

(B) Transcribe the following words:

(a) ghost

(b) tooth

(d) off

(e) arch

(f) wolf

2. (A) Describe the literary terms:

(a) Epic

(b) Comedy.

(B) Transcribe the following words:

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(a) wool

(b) stair

(d) clerk

(e) yawn

(f) gross

SECTION-B

3. In the poem "On His Blindness," why does the poet think that his only talent is now

useless; how does he react to his loss of vision and does his blindness shake

Milton's faith in God?

4. How does Blake build the contrasts in "The Chimney Sweeper" and what do the

contrasts signify ?

SECTION-C

5. Write in detail a critical appreciation of the poem, "Daffodils" highlight-ing its qualities

as a romantic poem.

6. In "The Road Not Taken," is the poet actually speaking of two roads in a wood or is he

suggesting a larger meaning about man and life?

SECTION-D

7. Discuss in detail the character of Nora in the play, A Doll's House.

8. Discuss the themes of dishonesty, reputation and marriage as shown in the

play, A Doll's House.

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GNDU Answer Paper-2023

B.A 1

Semester

ENGLISH (Elective)

Time Allowed: Three Hours Max. Marks: 75

Note: Attempt Five questions in all, selecting at least One question from each section. The

Fifth question may be attempted from any section. All questions carry equal marks.

SECTION-A

1. (A) Describe the literary terms:

(a) Character

(b) Irony.

Ans: Understanding Literary Terms: Character and Irony

In literature, words are more than just words — they carry life, emotion, and meaning. To

appreciate literature deeply, we need to understand the tools or literary terms that writers

use to express their thoughts. Two such powerful terms are "Character" and "Irony." These

are not just definitions to memorize but keys that unlock the heart of any story.

Let’s explore them together like we’re walking through the pages of a novel.

(a) Character: The Beating Heart of a Story

Imagine you're reading a novel — maybe it's Harry Potter, Pride and Prejudice, or The God of

Small Things. What keeps you turning the pages? It's not just the plot. It’s the people in the

story — the characters — that make you laugh, cry, worry, or hope.

❖ What is a Character?

A character in literature is a person, animal, or even a being that plays a role in the narrative

of a story. They may be real or imaginary. They can be a schoolteacher in a village, a king

from a myth, or even a talking cat from a fantasy world. Characters are the soul of the story.

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Think of characters as the actors of a play. The writer creates them and gives them a name,

personality, thoughts, feelings, and a past. Through the character’s words and actions, the

writer shares deeper messages about life, society, or the human condition.

❖ Types of Characters

Characters come in many forms. Let’s meet them:

1. Protagonist:

The main character or hero of the story. They are the focus of the reader's attention.

󺭨 Example: In Harry Potter, Harry is the protagonist.

2. Antagonist:

The opponent or villain who creates obstacles for the protagonist.

󺭨 Example: Voldemort is the antagonist in the same story.

3. Major Characters:

These are the characters who play a significant role in the story’s progress. They appear

frequently.

󺭨 Example: Hermione and Ron are major characters in Harry Potter.

4. Minor Characters:

These are supporting roles. They are not the focus, but they help move the story forward.

󺭨 Example: Madam Pomfrey or the Dursleys.

5. Static Characters:

They do not change throughout the story. Their personality stays the same.

󺭨 Example: A strict teacher who stays strict till the end.

6. Dynamic Characters:

They change, grow, or learn something by the end of the story.

󺭨 Example: In A Christmas Carol, Scrooge changes from a miser to a kind man.

7. Flat Characters:

They are simple, with one or two traits. They are often stereotypes.

󺭨 Example: A “funny friend” or a “cruel stepmother.”

8. Round Characters:

They are complex, realistic, and multi-dimensional. They have strengths, weaknesses, and

deep emotions.

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󺭨 Example: Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice.

❖ Why are Characters Important?

Characters carry the emotions of a story. Through them, we understand love, betrayal,

friendship, greed, sacrifice, and much more.

Just as we meet different people in life — kind, cruel, confused, brave — we meet them in

books too. And through these literary people, we learn lessons that stay with us long after

the last page.

(b) Irony: When Words Play a Game

Let’s say your friend slips on a banana peel and instead of falling, she suddenly does a dance

move and lands like a pro. You laugh and say, “Wow! That was graceful!” even though she

almost fell.

This is irony in everyday life.

❖ What is Irony?

Irony is a literary device where the intended meaning is different from — or opposite to —

the literal meaning.

It often involves surprise, contradiction, or humor. Writers use irony to make readers think

deeper, to highlight truth, or to criticize social or human behavior.

In simple terms, irony is "saying one thing, but meaning another." It helps create layers of

meaning in a story.

❖ Types of Irony

Let’s understand the three main types of irony with easy examples:

1. Verbal Irony

When someone says something but means the opposite, often in a sarcastic or humorous

way.

󺭨 Example:

It’s raining heavily and someone says, “What a perfect day for a picnic!”

The words say one thing, but the meaning is the opposite. This is verbal irony.

Writers use this to show a character’s cleverness, bitterness, or sense of humor.

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2. Situational Irony

This is when there is a difference between what is expected and what actually happens.

󺭨 Example:

A fire station burns down.

󺭨 Another Example:

A doctor falls sick from a disease they treat every day.

This kind of irony surprises the reader. It is used to show the unpredictability of life or to

criticize social structures.

3. Dramatic Irony

This occurs when the reader or audience knows something that the character does not.

󺭨 Example:

In Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Juliet drinks a potion to appear dead. Romeo doesn’t

know this and kills himself, thinking she is truly dead. The audience knows the truth, but the

character doesn’t.

Dramatic irony creates tension, emotional engagement, and sometimes even tragedy.

❖ Importance of Irony in Literature

• Makes the story clever and thought-provoking

• Highlights the gap between appearance and reality

• Criticizes hypocrisy or foolishness in society

• Adds humor or drama

• Helps the reader reflect on truth or injustice

Irony is like a hidden wink from the author. It makes the reader think, “Ah! There’s more to

this than meets the eye.”

Conclusion: Why These Literary Terms Matter

Both Character and Irony are essential building blocks of literature.

Characters make the story alive. Without them, stories would just be lifeless events. They

help us understand ourselves and the world around us through their experiences and

emotions.

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Irony, on the other hand, adds depth and intelligence to storytelling. It creates double

meanings, encourages critical thinking, and makes stories more engaging.

So the next time you read a novel, ask yourself:

• “Who are these characters? How do they change?”

• “Is the writer saying something between the lines through irony?”

Because once you begin to see these tools at work, literature becomes not just something

to read — but something to feel, analyze, and appreciate.

Remember: A good story isn't just about what happens. It’s about who it happens to

(character) and how it's told (including irony). Mastering these terms will open your eyes to

the hidden beauty of every page you read.

Let literature speak to you — not just through what it says, but how it says it.

(B) Transcribe the following words:

(a) ghost

(b) tooth

(d) off

(e) arch

(f) wolf

Ans: (a) ghost → /ɡəʊst/

󷵻󷵼󷵽󷵾 Starts with a hard "g" sound /ɡ/, followed by the diphthong /əʊ/, and ends with /st/.

(b) tooth → /tuːθ/

󷵻󷵼󷵽󷵾 Contains the long vowel /uː/, and ends with the voiceless "th" sound /θ/.

󷵻󷵼󷵽󷵾 Starts with the /j/ sound (like "y" in "yes"), followed by the short vowel /æ/, ending in

/k/.

(d) off → /ɒf/

󷵻󷵼󷵽󷵾 Uses the short vowel /ɒ/, followed by /f/.

(e) arch → /ɑːtʃ/

󷵻󷵼󷵽󷵾 Has the long vowel /ɑː/ and ends in the "ch" sound /tʃ/.

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(f) wolf → /wʊlf/

󷵻󷵼󷵽󷵾 Starts with /w/, has the short vowel /ʊ/, and ends in /lf/.

2. (A) Describe the literary terms:

(a) Epic

(b) Comedy.

Ans: Understanding Literary Terms: Epic and Comedy

When we step into the world of literature, we come across different forms and styles of

writing. Some stories take us to the battlegrounds of ancient heroes, while others make us

laugh at the foolishness of everyday life. Two important literary forms that have stood the

test of time are the Epic and the Comedy. Both of these have deep roots in history, and each

carries its own unique flavor, structure, and purpose. Let’s explore them in detail—like a

journey into two different but equally fascinating worlds.

(a) Epic: The Story of Heroes and Legends

What is an Epic?

An epic is a long, narrative poem that tells the story of a heroic figure. But it's not just any

story—it is a grand, serious, and important tale about a hero who performs extraordinary

deeds. These heroes are often larger than life. They may be warriors, kings, or even gods,

and they usually go on adventurous journeys or fight great battles. The purpose of an epic is

not just to entertain, but to inspire and teach moral values through the tale of bravery,

loyalty, and honor.

Origin of the Epic

The word "epic" comes from the Greek word epos, which means “word” or “story.” Ancient

cultures used epics to preserve history and pass down important stories from generation to

generation. Since many people in those times could not read or write, epic poems were

recited orally. Poets would sing or chant these long stories in royal courts or at public

gatherings.

Characteristics of an Epic

Let’s understand the features that make a literary work an epic:

1. Heroic Character: The central figure is a hero who is brave, strong, and determined.

He often represents the values of his culture.

2. Supernatural Elements: Gods, monsters, and magical forces often appear in epics.

They may help or hinder the hero.

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3. Long and Formal Style: Epics are usually written in an elevated and serious tone. The

language is often poetic and rich.

4. Vast Setting: The story often takes place across a wide geographical area—different

countries, oceans, or even the heavens and the underworld.

5. Adventure and War: Battles, dangerous journeys, and challenges are essential parts

of an epic.

6. Invocation to the Muse: Many traditional epics begin with the poet asking for

inspiration from the muse (a goddess of creativity in Greek mythology).

7. In Medias Res: Epics often start in the middle of the action, a technique called in

medias res (Latin for “in the middle of things”).

Famous Examples of Epics

• Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey (Ancient Greece): These two epics are among the oldest

in the world. The Iliad tells the story of the Trojan War, while The Odyssey describes

the journey of Odysseus returning home from the war.

• Virgil’s Aeneid (Ancient Rome): It describes the journey of Aeneas, a Trojan hero

who travels to Italy to found the Roman race.

• The Mahabharata and The Ramayana (India): These are ancient Sanskrit epics that

combine history, mythology, philosophy, and moral teachings.

• Beowulf (Old English): A heroic tale of a warrior named Beowulf who fights

monsters and dragons to protect his people.

• Paradise Lost by John Milton (English literature): A Christian epic poem about the

fall of Satan and the temptation of Adam and Eve.

Why is the Epic Important?

Epics preserve cultural identity. They tell us how ancient societies viewed the world, what

they considered heroic, and what moral lessons they wanted to pass on. They give us insight

into ancient values like courage, sacrifice, loyalty, and divine justice.

(b) Comedy: The Light Side of Life

What is a Comedy?

If the epic is serious and grand, then the comedy is its cheerful cousin. A comedy is a literary

work that aims to entertain and amuse. It usually deals with everyday situations, and its goal

is to make people laugh. However, comedy is not just about jokes and funny dialogues—it is

also about human nature, relationships, and the ability to find humor in difficult situations.

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In literature, a comedy often ends on a happy note. Conflicts get resolved,

misunderstandings are cleared up, and love often wins in the end. In fact, many classical

comedies end with a wedding or reunion, symbolizing joy and harmony.

Origin of Comedy

The word “comedy” comes from the Greek word komoidia, which means “revel song.” In

ancient Greece, comedies were performed in open-air theatres. They were full of jokes,

satire, and humorous situations that made fun of politics, society, or even gods. The

audience laughed not only because the plays were funny, but also because they recognized

the truth in the humor.

Types of Comedy

There are several types of comedies in literature:

1. Romantic Comedy: Focuses on love and relationships. The story is light-hearted, and

the ending is happy.

Example: Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream or Much Ado About Nothing.

2. Satirical Comedy: Uses humor to criticize society or politics. It exposes foolishness,

corruption, or social problems.

Example: George Bernard Shaw’s Arms and the Man.

3. Farce: Based on exaggerated and ridiculous situations. It includes slapstick humor,

mistaken identities, and absurd events.

Example: Molière’s The Miser.

4. Comedy of Manners: Satirizes the behavior and customs of the upper class. It often

involves witty dialogues and clever conversations.

Example: Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest.

5. Tragicomedy: A blend of tragedy and comedy. It has serious themes but ends on a

hopeful or humorous note.

Example: Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice.

Characteristics of a Comedy

1. Humorous Tone: The main purpose is to entertain and make people laugh.

2. Ordinary Characters: Unlike epics, comedies focus on common people, not heroes or

gods.

3. Conflict and Resolution: There’s usually a misunderstanding or problem that gets

solved by the end.

4. Happy Ending: Most comedies end with celebration, peace, or marriage.

5. Social Commentary: Many comedies subtly point out flaws in society, showing

human weakness with humor.

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Why is Comedy Important?

Comedy allows people to laugh at their own problems. It provides relief from stress, helps in

healing emotional wounds, and often teaches important life lessons in a fun and gentle way.

A well-written comedy is not just entertaining—it also makes us think.

Conclusion: Two Worlds, One Purpose

Though epics and comedies are very different in tone, style, and purpose, both serve an

important role in literature:

• Epics lift us up to the world of legends and values. They inspire courage, faith, and

strength.

• Comedies bring us back to earth, where laughter helps us deal with real-life

problems. They remind us not to take life too seriously.

Both forms have shaped cultures, influenced societies, and enriched literature. As university

students, understanding these literary terms not only helps in exams but also opens the

door to a deeper appreciation of the art of storytelling. Whether it's the heroic roar of an

epic or the joyful chuckle of a comedy—both continue to resonate with us even today.

(B) Transcribe the following words:

(a) wool

(b) stair

(d) clerk

(e) yawn

(f) gross

Ans: (a) wool

IPA: /wʊl/

Explanation: The word "wool" has a short ʊ sound (as in "put") followed by l.

(b) stair

IPA: /steə(r)/

Explanation: The vowel sound eə is a diphthong (a combination of two vowel sounds). The

final r is pronounced in rhotic accents (like American English) but often silent in non-rhotic

accents (like British English).

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IPA: /məʊv/ (British), /moʊv/ (American)

Explanation: The vowel sound here is a long o diphthong — either /əʊ/ or /oʊ/ depending

on the accent.

(d) clerk

IPA: /klɑːk/ (British), /klɜːrk/ (American)

Explanation: In British English, “clerk” is pronounced with the long ɑː sound. In American

English, it has the ɜːr (like in “her”).

(e) yawn

IPA: /jɔːn/

Explanation: Starts with a y sound /j/, followed by the long ɔː as in “law”, and ends with n.

(f) gross

IPA: /ɡrəʊs/ (British), /ɡroʊs/ (American)

Explanation: Starts with a hard g /ɡ/, followed by the diphthong /əʊ/ or /oʊ/, and ends with

SECTION-B

3. In the poem "On His Blindness," why does the poet think that his only talent is now

useless; how does he react to his loss of vision and does his blindness shake

Milton's faith in God?

Ans: "On His Blindness" by John Milton: A Story of Talent, Trial, and Faith

Let’s begin by imagining the life of a man named John Milton, a great poet from England in

the 17th century. He was not just any poet—Milton was a genius, someone whose mind was

filled with deep thoughts, grand ideas, and a gift for expressing them beautifully through

poetry. He believed that his ability to write was a gift from God, a "talent" he had been

given not just for himself, but to serve a divine purpose.

But then, something tragic happened.

Milton lost his eyesight. Slowly, his vision faded until he became completely blind. This was

not only a physical loss but a deeply emotional and spiritual blow. Imagine being a writer,

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someone who lives through words, someone whose joy and duty is to share powerful

messages with the world, and suddenly you can’t even see the words on the page. It’s

heartbreaking.

Milton wrote the sonnet "On His Blindness" to express his feelings about this difficult time in

his life. This poem is not just a piece of literature; it’s a window into Milton’s soul. Let’s

explore what the poem means, why he felt his talent was now useless, how he reacted to

his blindness, and most importantly, whether his faith in God was shaken.

The Fear of Wasted Talent

The poem starts with Milton thinking about his life after losing his sight:

“When I consider how my light is spent

Ere half my days, in this dark world and wide…”

Here, "light" refers to his eyesight, which he says is gone before he’s even reached the

middle of his life. He feels as if he’s been left in a dark world—not just physically dark

because of blindness, but emotionally and spiritually dark because he feels lost.

Milton had always believed that his talent for writing poetry was a way of serving God. He

compares his poetic ability to the Biblical story of the talents in the New Testament. In that

story, a master gives his servants talents (money) before going on a journey. When he

returns, he rewards those who used their talents wisely and punishes the one who hid his

talent and did nothing with it.

Milton fears he is like the servant who buried his talent:

“And that one Talent which is death to hide

Lodged with me useless…”

He believes that not using his poetic gift is like disobeying God. It makes him feel guilty, like

he’s wasting the very gift that was given to him for a divine reason. His blindness has made

his talent seem "useless," and he is afraid that God might punish him for not being able to

use it anymore.

The Conflict in His Mind

Milton is full of doubts. He wonders:

“Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?”

He’s asking a deep question here: Would God expect me to work and write even though He

has taken away my sight? It’s a powerful thought. Imagine being in his shoes—confused,

scared, feeling unworthy, and questioning whether he has failed his divine duty.

But then, something shifts in the poem.

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The Turning Point: Patience Speaks

At this moment, a character called "Patience" enters the poem. Now, this is not a real

person—it’s a personification, a poetic way of letting a quality (patience) speak to him as if it

were a wise friend.

Patience answers Milton’s doubts with calm wisdom. It tells him that God doesn’t need

grand acts of service to be pleased. God is a king with “thousands at his bidding” who serve

him in many different ways, some by actively working and others simply by waiting

faithfully.

The most famous line in the poem comes here:

“They also serve who only stand and wait.”

This line holds the heart of the poem. It means that even those who cannot do anything

actively—because of illness, disability, or other hardships—can still serve God by being

faithful, patient, and accepting His will. Waiting doesn’t mean doing nothing; it means

trusting in God’s plan, even when life doesn’t make sense.

Milton’s Reaction to His Blindness

So, how does Milton finally react to his blindness?

In the beginning, he feels helpless and scared. He believes that he is no longer useful. His

mind is full of sorrow and guilt, thinking he is failing in his duty to God. But through the

voice of Patience, he comes to a new understanding.

He realizes that:

• His worth is not just in his writing.

• God doesn’t judge him based on how many poems he writes.

• Faith and patience are just as valuable as active service.

• Being humble, accepting, and loyal to God’s will is also a way of serving.

In the end, instead of anger or despair, Milton shows faith and acceptance. He stops

blaming himself. He stops questioning God. He learns that his blindness is not a punishment,

and it doesn’t mean his life is without value.

Does Blindness Shake Milton’s Faith?

This is a key question.

The answer is: No. His blindness does not shake his faith. In fact, it makes his faith stronger.

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At first, he is confused and afraid. But he doesn’t lose his trust in God. Instead, he grows in

understanding. The poem is a spiritual journey. It shows us how Milton moves from doubt

to trust, from fear to peace. He realizes that God’s ways are mysterious, but always full of

purpose.

Milton could have chosen to live in bitterness or anger. But he didn’t. He chose to believe

that even in darkness, God’s light is still present.

Why Is This Poem So Powerful?

"On His Blindness" is not just about Milton's personal struggle. It speaks to everyone who

has ever faced a setback in life. Whether it’s an illness, a disability, failure, or loss—this

poem gives hope.

It teaches us that:

• You are still valuable even if you cannot do what you once could.

• Waiting patiently and keeping your faith is also a form of strength.

• God loves you for who you are, not just for what you do.

Conclusion

In "On His Blindness," John Milton opens his heart to us. He tells a story of fear, guilt,

wisdom, and finally—faith. He thought his talent was wasted because he could no longer

write like before. He felt afraid that he was not serving God. But through inner reflection

and patience, he understood a deeper truth: Service to God is not always in action.

Sometimes, it is in waiting, in trusting, and in accepting life as it comes.

Milton's poem is a reminder that our worth is not measured by our abilities but by our

attitude, especially in times of struggle. His blindness did not destroy his faith. Instead, it

helped him reach a higher spiritual understanding—one that still touches the hearts of

readers today.

4. How does Blake build the contrasts in "The Chimney Sweeper" and what do the

contrasts signify ?

Ans: William Blake, one of the greatest poets of the Romantic Age, is known for his deep

sympathy for the innocent and the oppressed. His poems often express a strong criticism of

the social injustice and hypocrisy present in his time. One of the most powerful examples of

this is his pair of poems titled "The Chimney Sweeper" – one from Songs of Innocence (1789)

and the other from Songs of Experience (1794).

These two poems are about the same subject – the poor children who worked as chimney

sweepers in 18th-century England – but they are written from two very different

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perspectives. Blake uses contrasts between innocence and experience, hope and despair,

reality and imagination, and inner purity versus outer corruption to highlight the harsh

realities of life and the cruelty of a society that allowed such suffering.

Let’s explore how Blake uses these contrasts and what they mean.

󷉃󷉄 1. Songs of Innocence: The Innocent World of a Child

In Songs of Innocence, the poem starts with a little boy who tells his story. His mother has

died, and his father sold him into the profession of chimney sweeping when he was so

young that he could barely speak:

“When my mother died I was very young,

And my father sold me while yet my tongue

Could scarcely cry ‘weep! weep! weep! weep!’”

Here, we immediately see the contrast between childhood innocence and cruel reality. A

child, who should be playing and learning, is instead thrown into a life of danger and labor.

But the child does not complain bitterly. Instead, he tells the story almost naively, as if he

has accepted this as normal.

Blake introduces another boy, Tom Dacre, who is sad when his curly white hair is shaved off.

The narrator tries to comfort him. That night, Tom has a beautiful dream in which thousands

of chimney sweepers, including himself, are locked in black coffins. Then an angel appears,

sets them free, and tells Tom:

“If he'd be a good boy,

He'd have God for his father & never want joy.”

This dream offers a contrast between the harshness of daily life and the hopeful world of

dreams and religion. The angelic promise gives the boys hope that after all the pain and

suffering, there is peace and happiness in the afterlife.

The poem ends with:

“Though the morning was cold, Tom was happy and warm;

So if all do their duty, they need not fear harm.”

This last line is full of irony. On the surface, it seems to encourage obedience and duty. But

Blake is actually criticizing the way society teaches children to accept suffering with the false

hope of heavenly rewards. The contrast between the real, cold morning and the imaginary

warmth shows how faith is used to numb children’s pain instead of improving their

conditions.

󹺁󹺂 2. Songs of Experience: The Bitter Voice of Reality

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In the second version of The Chimney Sweeper from Songs of Experience, Blake uses a much

darker and angrier tone. This poem is no longer told by an innocent child, but by a child who

has gained awareness of the cruelty and hypocrisy of the adult world.

“A little black thing among the snow,

Crying 'weep! weep!' in notes of woe!”

Here, the contrast is immediately striking. The black figure (a child covered in soot) against

the white snow represents the loss of innocence and purity. The child is now a "thing",

suggesting that he is seen as an object, not a human being. His cry is no longer innocent or

hopeful—it’s full of pain and sorrow.

When asked where his parents are, the child replies:

“They are both gone up to the church to pray.”

This introduces a shocking contrast between religious practice and moral failure. The

parents are praying in church while their child is abandoned and suffering. This is a strong

criticism of false religion and social hypocrisy.

The child adds:

“They think they have done me no injury,

And are gone to praise God and his Priest and King,

Who make up a heaven of our misery.”

Blake’s message becomes clear: the institutions of church, monarchy, and society pretend

to be holy and good, but they actually survive by exploiting the poor. The so-called “heaven”

of the rich is built on the suffering of innocent children like the chimney sweepers.

󷇍󷇑󷇎󷇏󷇒󷆱󷇐 3. Blake’s Use of Contrasts: A Tool of Criticism

Blake builds these contrasts very carefully to send a powerful message:

a) Innocence vs. Experience:

• In Songs of Innocence, the child is still full of hope and comforted by dreams and

faith.

• In Songs of Experience, the child sees the truth and feels betrayed.

This contrast reflects Blake’s belief that society corrupts innocence, and that growing up

often means losing faith in a system that doesn’t protect the weak.

b) Dream vs. Reality:

• Tom Dacre dreams of angels and freedom.

• The experienced child sees only cold snow and pain.

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Blake uses dreams to show how religion and imagination can offer comfort. But he also

warns that this comfort is often used to keep people passive, while the real world remains

unjust.

c) Religion vs. Morality:

• In Innocence, religion is shown as a source of hope.

• In Experience, it becomes a symbol of hypocrisy.

Blake is not against God, but against the way religion is used by society to justify suffering.

People pray and praise God while ignoring the misery around them.

d) Light vs. Dark Imagery:

• Words like “white hair,” “coffins of black,” and “snow” are not just descriptions, but

symbols.

o White hair: innocence and purity.

o Black soot: dirt, suffering, and lost innocence.

o Snow: coldness of the world, both physically and emotionally.

Blake plays with these images to show how innocence is destroyed by a world that is

outwardly pure but inwardly cruel.

󹻊󹻋󹻌󹻎󹻍 What Do These Contrasts Signify?

These contrasts are not just poetic tools. They carry deep social and philosophical meanings:

1. Child labor was not just a personal tragedy but a social crime. Blake uses the

chimney sweeper as a symbol of all exploited and voiceless people.

2. Religion, instead of being a source of justice, had become a tool of control, making

people accept pain in the name of God.

3. Innocence is not permanent, and as people grow older, they either lose their

innocence or wake up to the cruelty around them.

4. True morality lies in action, not in rituals or empty prayers.

󷃆󼽢 Conclusion

Through The Chimney Sweeper poems, William Blake masterfully builds contrasts between

innocence and experience, hope and reality, faith and hypocrisy, and purity and corruption.

These contrasts are not accidental—they are carefully chosen to highlight the injustices of

Blake’s society.

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By showing the world through the eyes of innocent children and then through the bitter

awareness of those same children grown wiser, Blake calls on readers to see the truth

behind appearances and to question the systems of power, religion, and economy that

allow such suffering to continue.

His message still resonates today: True change comes not from blind faith, but from

awareness, empathy, and moral courage.

SECTION-C

5. Write in detail a critical appreciation of the poem, "Daffodils" highlight-ing its qualities

as a romantic poem.

Ans: Critical Appreciation of the Poem “Daffodils”

By William Wordsworth

(Also known as "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud")

󷉸󷉹󷉺 Introduction: A Glimpse into Nature’s Beauty

Imagine walking alone in the countryside on a calm day. The sky is cloudy, your mind is

wandering, and you feel a bit lonely. Suddenly, you come across a breathtaking scene –

thousands of golden daffodils dancing in the breeze near a lake. This simple yet magical

moment touches your heart and stays in your memory forever. This is exactly what William

Wordsworth experienced and beautifully expressed in his famous poem "Daffodils."

Wordsworth was one of the greatest poets of the Romantic Age. His poetry focuses on

nature, emotions, imagination, and the connection between humans and the natural world.

“Daffodils” is a perfect example of this. In this critical appreciation, we will explore the

poem’s meaning, language, imagery, and its romantic elements.

󹵅󹵆󹵇󹵈 The Story Behind the Poem

Wordsworth wrote this poem in 1804, inspired by a real incident. He was walking with his

sister Dorothy near a lake in the Lake District of England when they saw a large number of

daffodils blooming along the shore. Dorothy even described the moment in her diary, and

later Wordsworth turned this experience into a poem.

󹲹󹲺󹲻󹲼󹵉󹵊󹵋󹵌󹵍 Summary of the Poem

Let’s understand the poem in simple terms:

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• First Stanza: The poet starts by saying he was wandering alone like a cloud. While

walking, he suddenly saw a crowd of golden daffodils beside a lake, under the trees.

They seemed to be dancing in the wind.

• Second Stanza: He describes how the daffodils were stretching in a long line, looking

endless, like the stars in the Milky Way. He saw ten thousand of them, all dancing

and fluttering with joy.

• Third Stanza: The poet then compares the waves of the lake to the daffodils.

Although the waves were also moving, the daffodils seemed more cheerful. The poet

feels a great sense of happiness in their company.

• Fourth Stanza: The poem ends with the poet saying that whenever he feels lonely or

thoughtful, the image of the daffodils comes back to his mind and fills his heart with

joy. It becomes a “bliss of solitude.”

󷖳󷖴󷖵󷖶󷖷 Romantic Qualities of the Poem

“Daffodils” is often praised as one of the finest Romantic poems. But what does that mean?

Romantic poetry is not about love alone—it is about the love of nature, emotions,

imagination, and individual experience. Let’s explore how “Daffodils” contains all these

elements:

󷊄󷊅󷊆󷊇󷊈󷊉 1. Love and Worship of Nature

At the heart of the poem is a deep love for nature. The poet finds joy and comfort in

something as simple as a bunch of flowers. He doesn’t need a big city or grand palace—just

nature is enough to make his soul happy. This is a typical feature of Romantic poetry.

Wordsworth sees daffodils not as mere flowers, but as living beings that dance, play, and

celebrate life. He gives them a spiritual quality. Nature, for him, is a teacher and a healer.

󹰂󹰃󹰄 2. Emphasis on Emotions and Inner Feelings

Romantic poets believed that emotions were more powerful than logic. In “Daffodils,” the

poet expresses his feelings of loneliness at the beginning and joy by the end. The

transformation of his mood is central to the poem.

The phrase “my heart with pleasure fills” shows how powerful the emotional connection

with nature is. The memory of the daffodils lifts the poet's spirits, even when he is sad or

alone.

󷆤󷆥󷆦󷆧󷆨󷆩 3. The Power of Imagination and Memory

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One of the beautiful aspects of this poem is how Wordsworth emphasizes the role of

imagination and memory. The daffodils are not just a momentary sight; they become a

permanent picture in the poet’s mind. He can recall them whenever he wants.

This idea of revisiting beauty through imagination is a Romantic belief. It shows how our

inner world can be rich and fulfilling, even when we are physically alone.

󷸈󷸉󷸊󷸋 4. Focus on Individual Experience

The entire poem is based on Wordsworth’s personal experience. He doesn’t talk about

society, politics, or any external matters. Instead, he focuses on his own thoughts, feelings,

and responses.

This focus on the individual’s emotional journey is a hallmark of Romantic poetry. The poet

becomes both the subject and the observer.

󷆊󷆋󷆌󷆍󷆎󷆏 5. Use of Simple Language and Natural Imagery

Wordsworth believed in writing poetry in the language of common people. In “Daffodils,” he

uses simple, clear words that are easy to understand. There is no difficult vocabulary or

complex structure.

At the same time, the imagery he creates is rich and vivid. We can almost see the daffodils

dancing, hear the breeze, and feel the poet’s emotions. Phrases like “golden daffodils,”

“fluttering and dancing in the breeze,” and “ten thousand saw I at a glance” paint a

beautiful mental picture.

󼨐󼨑󼨒 Philosophical Message

While the poem seems light and cheerful, it also carries a deep message:

Nature has the power to heal, inspire, and uplift the human soul. Even in solitude, we are

never truly alone if we carry beautiful memories within us. This is a comforting thought for

anyone who feels lost or lonely.

󽄻󽄼󽄽 Structure and Style

• The poem is written in four stanzas of six lines each.

• It follows a simple ABABCC rhyme scheme.

• The rhythm is smooth and musical, like a gentle wave.

• This regular form mirrors the calm, peaceful feeling the poet experiences while

observing nature.

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󷗭󷗨󷗩󷗪󷗫󷗬 Conclusion: Why "Daffodils" Still Matters

"Daffodils" is more than just a poem about flowers. It’s about finding joy in simple things,

appreciating the beauty around us, and understanding that nature can comfort us in our

hardest moments. It teaches us to pause, observe, and connect with the world in a deeper

way.

In a fast-paced modern world full of noise and distraction, Wordsworth’s poem remains

relevant. It reminds us that true happiness often lies in small, quiet moments – like watching

a flower dance in the wind.

󹳴󹳵󹳶󹳷 Final Thought

In the end, "Daffodils" is a true Romantic poem – full of beauty, emotion, imagination, and

the healing power of nature. Its message is timeless, and its language touches the heart.

Through this poem, Wordsworth invites us to walk beside him, see the world through his

eyes, and carry a little piece of nature in our hearts forever.

6. In "The Road Not Taken," is the poet actually speaking of two roads in a wood or is he

suggesting a larger meaning about man and life?

Ans: Introduction – A Poem About Choices in Life

Imagine standing alone in a forest. In front of you are two paths. You must pick one, but you

cannot see where either one leads. There’s no going back once you choose. What will you

do? This is the powerful and relatable situation that Robert Frost presents in his poem “The

Road Not Taken.”

At first glance, this poem seems to be about a simple scene in nature—choosing between

two roads in a forest. But if we look deeper, we realize that the poem is not only about a

walk in the woods; it is actually a powerful reflection on life, decisions, and human nature.

Let’s explore the poem, stanza by stanza, and uncover the deeper meaning behind Frost’s

words.

Stanza 1: The Moment of Decision

“Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both…”

Here, the speaker is standing in a forest during autumn (“yellow wood”) and sees two

separate paths going in different directions. He feels regret that he cannot walk on both

roads at once. This moment represents a situation in life when a person is faced with two

options, but can only choose one. These “roads” are symbols—they represent life’s choices,

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such as choosing a career, a relationship, a belief system, or any path where you must make

a decision.

We’ve all been there—trying to decide between two colleges, two friends, two job

opportunities, or even two dreams. This stanza captures that real-life feeling of confusion

and regret when we wish we could try everything, but we can’t.

Stanza 2: Trying to Choose the Better Path

“Then took the other, as just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim…”

The speaker tries to make a decision. He first looks at one road, then chooses the other. He

says it looked “just as fair,” meaning both paths appeared to be equal or similar. However,

he adds that the one he chose “had perhaps the better claim,” suggesting that it looked

slightly more appealing because it seemed less worn or less traveled.

But right after that, he admits that both roads had been worn “really about the same.” This

shows us a very human truth: sometimes, we try to convince ourselves that one option is

better than the other, even when we know deep inside that both options are nearly the

same. We search for reasons to justify our choices.

Stanza 3: A Choice That Can’t Be Undone

“Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads on to way,

I doubted if I should ever come back.”

In this stanza, the speaker says that he kept the first road for another time, but then realizes

he might never return. In life, once we make a choice, it often leads to other situations and

consequences that make it impossible to go back and try the other option. For example, if

you choose to study engineering instead of literature, you might never experience what life

as a literature student could have been.

This stanza is deeply emotional—it reflects the reality that life moves forward and choices

shape our future in ways we cannot undo. We cannot always “go back and try again.”

Stanza 4: Reflecting in the Future

“I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence…”

Now, the speaker imagines himself many years later, reflecting on this moment of decision.

He says he will tell the story “with a sigh,” but it’s not clear whether that sigh is one of

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happiness or regret. That’s the beauty and mystery of this poem—it doesn’t give us a clear

answer. It allows the reader to decide what that “sigh” means.

When we grow older, we often look back at the choices we made and wonder: “What if I

had done things differently?” Sometimes we are proud, and other times we feel regret.

Frost captures that perfectly here. It shows how our choices stay with us, shaping who we

become and how we remember our journey.

The Famous Lines: A Powerful Ending

“I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.”

These are perhaps the most quoted lines in all of poetry. Many people think these lines

mean that the speaker chose a unique path, different from what everyone else was doing,

and that it led to success or change. However, if we remember the earlier stanzas, both

roads were almost the same. This tells us that the speaker is creating a meaning in

hindsight—he wants to believe his choice was unique and important.

This is something we all do. We create stories about our lives to make sense of our

decisions. We want to feel that the paths we took mattered, that they were brave or special.

So, this ending line speaks about how humans interpret their past and give meaning to their

lives, even when the reality may have been more uncertain.

So, What Is the Poem Really About?

Now, let’s return to the main question: Is the poet actually speaking of two roads in a wood,

or is he suggesting a larger meaning about man and life?

Clearly, Robert Frost is using the scene of the two roads as a metaphor—a symbol for the

choices we all must make in life. The poem is not just about walking in the forest. It is about

life’s decisions, the uncertainty of the future, and the importance we place on our past

choices.

The poem teaches us several key lessons:

1. Life is full of choices.

We all must choose between paths—some are clear, others are confusing. But we

can’t travel all of them.

2. We often justify our choices later.

The speaker convinces himself that his choice was important and unique. We all do

this to create meaning in our lives.

3. You can't go back.

In life, once you make a decision, it often leads you to new experiences and new

roads. Going back is rarely possible.

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4. Reflection brings both satisfaction and wonder.

The speaker reflects “with a sigh,” showing that choices are never simple. Even years

later, we may wonder about the road we didn’t take.

Conclusion – A Human Poem About Life’s Journey

“The Road Not Taken” is one of the most human poems ever written. It connects with all of

us, no matter our age or background, because we all have to make decisions. Frost’s

brilliance lies in the simplicity of the image—a fork in the road—and the deep truth behind

it.

For university students, this poem is especially meaningful. You are at a stage in life where

many important choices are ahead—what to study, where to work, who to be with, what

kind of life to build. This poem reminds you that while choices are hard, they are also what

shape your identity. And in the end, it is not the road itself, but the meaning you give to that

road, that truly “makes all the difference.”

SECTION-D

7. Discuss in detail the character of Nora in the play, A Doll's House.

Ans: Character of Nora in A Doll’s House – A Detailed Discussion

Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s House, written in 1879, is a powerful play that shook the very

foundation of traditional gender roles and societal expectations. At the center of this

dramatic revolution is Nora Helmer, a housewife who at first appears sweet, childish, and

dependent, but later emerges as a woman of strength, courage, and individualism. Her

character development is not just the story of one woman—it reflects the struggle of many

women of her time who were caught between duty and self-realization.

Let’s explore the character of Nora, piece by piece, as she evolves through the play.

1. Nora as a “Doll” in the Beginning

In the beginning of the play, Nora seems like a typical 19th-century housewife. She is

cheerful, charming, and playful, always eager to please her husband Torvald. She’s often

compared to a “little bird” or a “squirrel” by Torvald, and she accepts these nicknames with

a smile. Her life appears perfect—she lives in a beautiful home, has lovely children, and a

caring husband. But this perfection is only on the surface.

Her role in the house is like that of a doll in a doll’s house. She is expected to be beautiful,

obedient, and harmless—never to think for herself. Her husband treats her like a possession

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rather than an equal partner. For example, he controls how much money she spends, and

she has to hide her eating of sweets (macaroons) like a child hiding from a strict parent.

At this stage, Nora seems shallow and immature, more interested in dresses, parties, and

gifts. But beneath her smiling face, there’s something much deeper.

2. Nora’s Secret and Hidden Strength

As the play moves forward, we learn something surprising—Nora has a secret.

Some years earlier, when Torvald was seriously ill, the doctors advised them to travel to

Italy for his treatment. It was very expensive, and they didn’t have the money. But Nora,

instead of giving up, secretly borrowed money to save her husband’s life. She faked her

father’s signature on a loan document to get the money, which was illegal at that time.

This single act shows that Nora is not just a silly woman. She is brave, resourceful, and

determined. She takes a great risk to protect the man she loves, and she works quietly to

repay the debt by saving from her household allowance and secretly doing small jobs.

But Nora hides all this from Torvald. Why?

Because she knows he would never allow her to act on her own. She lives in a society where

women were not legally allowed to borrow money without their husband’s consent. Her

secret action, though illegal, reveals her inner strength and independence—qualities that

society does not recognize in women.

3. The Pressure of Society and Nora’s Awakening

Nora’s secret is eventually discovered by a man named Krogstad, who threatens to expose

her unless she helps him keep his job at the bank. This creates intense pressure on Nora. For

the first time, we see her in fear—not for her own sake, but because of how Torvald will

react.

She believes that once Torvald finds out, he will protect her, take the blame, and stand by

her. She is confident that her love and sacrifice will be recognized.

But she is wrong.

When Torvald discovers the truth, he does not think about her sacrifice. Instead, he

becomes angry and blames her for ruining his reputation. He calls her a criminal and says

she is unfit to raise their children. This is the turning point for Nora.

She realizes that Torvald does not truly love her—he only loves the image of her as a sweet,

obedient wife. He cares more about his social status than her as a person. Nora begins to

see the reality of her marriage.

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4. Nora’s Transformation and Final Decision

From this moment on, Nora changes. She starts thinking deeply about her life. She realizes

that she has been living in a doll’s house, playing the role of a doll-wife and a doll-mother,

without ever being treated as an individual with a voice or rights.

Nora begins to question everything:

• Her marriage

• Her role as a mother

• Her position in society

• Her lack of education and experience in the real world

She understands that she has been raised to be dependent and ignorant, and now she

wants to discover who she really is.

In a bold and shocking decision, Nora leaves her home, her husband, and her children. She

says she must educate herself and find her identity as a human being. This was a radical step

for a woman in the 19th century, and it shocked audiences when the play was first

performed.

Nora’s final line is one of the most powerful in theatre history:

“I must stand quite alone if I am to understand myself and everything about me.”

This shows how far she has come—from a dependent wife to a self-aware woman seeking

freedom and truth.

5. Symbolism in Nora’s Character

Nora is not just a character—she is a symbol of every woman who feels trapped by society’s

rules.

• The doll’s house represents a fake, decorated life with no real choices.

• Nora’s tarantella dance symbolizes how she has been forced to perform and

entertain, rather than live freely.

• Her exit from the house is symbolic of breaking free from patriarchy, ignorance, and

dependence.

Conclusion: Nora’s Legacy

Nora’s character is one of the most iconic in modern drama. She begins as a seemingly

simple, playful housewife but transforms into a strong, independent woman. Her journey

from ignorance to awareness, from dependence to independence, is deeply inspiring.

For university students studying literature, Nora teaches us:

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• How personal identity can be shaped or suppressed by social roles.

• How love without respect is not enough in a relationship.

• How individuals, especially women, must sometimes take painful steps to grow and

find their true selves.

Henrik Ibsen did not just create a character—he started a conversation. Through Nora, he

questioned the traditional roles of women and marriage in society. And even today, more

than 100 years later, Nora continues to speak to readers and audiences about freedom,

identity, and self-respect.

In summary, Nora is a beautifully written, deeply symbolic, and emotionally powerful

character who shows us that even the most ordinary person can take an extraordinary step

toward truth and freedom.

Let Nora’s story inspire you to always seek your voice—even when the world expects you to

stay silent.

8. Discuss the themes of dishonesty, reputation and marriage as shown in the

play, A Doll's House.

Ans: Henrik Ibsen’s famous play “A Doll’s House”, first performed in 1879, is more than just

a story about a husband and wife. It is a powerful drama that explores real-life themes like

dishonesty, reputation, and marriage in a way that challenges traditional views of society.

Let’s explore each of these themes as they appear in the play, in a simple and easy-to-

understand manner.

󷆳󷆴󷆵󷆶󷆷󷆱󷆲 1. Theme of Dishonesty

At the heart of A Doll’s House is a web of lies and secrecy. The main character, Nora Helmer,

appears at first to be a cheerful, obedient wife, but as the play progresses, we discover that

she has been keeping a major secret from her husband, Torvald.

❖ Nora’s Dishonesty – A Protective Lie

Nora once forged her father’s signature to get a loan from a man named Krogstad. She did

this because Torvald was sick, and she wanted to take him to Italy for treatment, which

required a lot of money. Since women in that time couldn’t borrow money without a man’s

permission, Nora had no choice but to lie. She kept this secret for many years, slowly

repaying the loan by saving money from her household allowance.

Although Nora lied, her intention was not evil—she was trying to save her husband’s life.

This shows that dishonesty in the play is not black and white. Ibsen presents the idea that

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sometimes, people lie out of love, fear, or a sense of duty. However, even lies told with

good intentions can have serious consequences.

❖ Torvald’s View on Lies

Torvald is very strict about morality and law. He believes that a woman who lies is not only

dishonest but also unfit to raise children. He even says that dishonesty in a mother can

“poison” the home. Ironically, he doesn’t know that Nora—his wife and the mother of his

children—is the one hiding the biggest lie of all. This shows a double standard: Torvald

expects honesty but does not recognize the reasons behind Nora’s lie.

󷗛󷗜 2. Theme of Reputation

The idea of reputation is another major theme in the play. In the society Ibsen shows,

appearances are everything. People care more about how things look to others than what

they truly are.

❖ Torvald and His Public Image

Torvald Helmer is obsessed with maintaining a perfect reputation. He has just been

promoted to a high position at the bank, and he doesn’t want anything to threaten his

image as a respectable man. When he finds out about Nora’s forgery, he doesn’t care that

she did it to save him. Instead, he becomes angry about how this could damage his status.

He says, “Now you have ruined all my happiness. You have destroyed all my future.”

This shows that Torvald’s love for Nora is not as deep as it seems. He is more concerned

about what others will think of him than about his wife’s sacrifice. This selfish focus on

reputation makes him appear shallow and weak.

❖ Krogstad’s Struggle for Respect

Krogstad, the man who lent money to Nora, is also fighting for his reputation. He once

committed a crime (forgery), and as a result, he lost his social standing. Now he is trying to

rebuild his name by keeping his job at the bank. When he threatens to expose Nora’s secret,

it’s not just for revenge—it’s because he wants to clear his own name. Like Torvald,

Krogstad is also caught in the trap of reputation.

󹨼󹨽󹨾 3. Theme of Marriage

Perhaps the most powerful theme in A Doll’s House is the questioning of traditional

marriage roles. Ibsen explores what it means to be a husband and a wife and whether love

can survive when the relationship is unequal.

❖ Nora and Torvald’s Relationship – A Doll’s Marriage

From the beginning of the play, we see that Nora and Torvald’s marriage is not equal.

Torvald treats Nora like a child or a doll, calling her names like “little skylark” or “my little

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squirrel.” He makes decisions for her, controls her money, and expects her to behave like an

obedient wife. Nora plays along, but only because she believes that’s what love means.

As the story unfolds, Nora starts to see the truth: she has been living in a doll’s house,

where she is expected to smile, look pretty, and not have thoughts or opinions of her own.

She realizes that Torvald does not truly understand or respect her. He loves the idea of her,

not the real person she is.

This realization leads to the most dramatic moment in the play—Nora’s decision to leave

her husband and children in order to discover who she really is.

❖ Marriage as a Social Contract

Ibsen uses Nora’s journey to challenge traditional views on marriage. He suggests that a

marriage built on control, dishonesty, or unequal power cannot survive. A healthy marriage

should be based on mutual respect, trust, and freedom.

Nora tells Torvald, “I believe that before all else I am a human being.” This statement

becomes the heart of the play. It shows that women, just like men, need the freedom to

grow, to learn, and to live as individuals.

󷇴󷇵󷇶󷇷󷇸󷇹 Conclusion – A Powerful Message for All Times

Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s House is not just a story from the 1800s. It is a message that still

speaks to us today. Through the themes of dishonesty, reputation, and marriage, Ibsen

shows the struggles of individuals—especially women—within a society that puts rules and

appearances above human needs and emotions.

• Dishonesty, while often shown as a flaw, is portrayed with nuance. Nora’s lie is a

symbol of both sacrifice and desperation.

• Reputation is shown as a social burden that can ruin real relationships and stop

people from doing what’s right.

• Marriage, in the play, becomes a symbol of how deeply society can fail when it

expects women to be silent, pretty dolls rather than real people with their own

thoughts and dreams.

In the end, Nora’s choice to leave is not a rejection of marriage itself, but a rejection of the

false and unequal version of it. Ibsen leaves us with a powerful idea: true love and true

relationships can only exist when both partners are equals, honest with each other and free

to be themselves.

“This paper has been carefully prepared for educational purposes. If you notice any mistakes or

have suggestions, feel free to share your feedback.”